Fire players thrilled to have opportunity against Brazilian star and 1 of world's best teams

AC Milan star Ronaldinho had the right idea on the best way to spend part of a near-perfect Friday.

Instead of the drudgery of practice, he opted to enjoy the sights and sunshine at Wrigley Field.

Ronaldinho's visit was part of a whirlwind Chicago weekend that includes Sunday night's friendly against the Fire at Toyota Park.

The 30-year-old Brazilian soccer star skipped a late morning training session and instead found himself chatting in the dugout with Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano, waving to fans and throwing a ceremonial first pitch before the start of the Cubs-Cardinals series opener.

Zambrano offered some some throwing tips and Ronaldinho, clad in a pin-striped Cubs home jersey, launched a high, arcing lob from the pitcher's mound.

He's respectful of the American game and appreciates positive reception from fans.

"I think the soccer in America is a good level," said Ronaldinho. "I'm very happy to be in the United States, above all because whenever I comes to another country, all the people love me.

"(And) I'm very happy to stay in Chicago."

Ronaldinho and his Brazilian national team played the United States at Soldier Field in 2007 and AC Milan and the Fire previously met in a 2005 exhibition, also on the lakefront.

Milan, which completed its Italian Serie A season earlier this month, is on a short U.S. tour which also included a stop in Washington, D.C., where D.C. United claimed a 3-2 victory Wednesday.

Although several top Milan names are missing because of World Cup commitments, other stars like Alexandre Pato and Clarence Seedorf have made the trip.

The Fire enter Sunday's contest with a businesslike attitude and maybe just a little awe among some of the younger players.

"We approach pretty much every game the same, hoping to have a good performance, but it's a little bit different with Milan," Fire midfielder Baggio Husidic said. "It's an awesome opportunity and awesome experience.

"To walk out that tunnel with Ronaldinho at your side is in a way unbelievable. I'm sure some of the guys are going to be thrilled and there will be some butterflies."